Sat Oct 04 06:41:32 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the text provided:

**Summary:**

The Ernakulam District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission ruled against the State Bank of India (SBI) for failing to release the maturity proceeds of a deceased depositor’s Fixed Deposit (FD) to his son. The bank claimed it couldn’t locate the necessary records. The commission has ordered SBI to repay the FD amount and provide compensation to the son for the inconvenience caused.

**News Article:**

**SBI Ordered to Pay Compensation for Delay in Releasing Dead Depositor’s FD in Ernakulam**

**Ernakulam, Kerala –** The State Bank of India (SBI) has been ordered by the Ernakulam District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission to release the maturity proceeds of a deceased depositor’s Fixed Deposit (FD) to his son, along with compensation for failing to do so promptly.

The commission’s ruling came after the bank allegedly failed to release the FD amount, citing missing records. The deceased depositor’s son filed a complaint alleging deficiency in service, stating that the bank’s inability to locate the records caused undue hardship and financial distress.

The Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission sided with the complainant, emphasizing the bank’s responsibility to maintain accurate records and facilitate the smooth transfer of funds to legal heirs.

The order mandates SBI to release the full FD maturity amount to the son and also pay a sum as compensation to acknowledge the inconvenience and mental distress caused by the delay. The specific amount of compensation was not disclosed.

This ruling serves as a reminder to financial institutions of their duty to efficiently manage accounts and ensure a seamless process for transferring funds, particularly in cases involving deceased depositors.

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